The development of modern markets in Kiambu County has brought significant transformation in the lives of local traders, replacing makeshift stalls and open-air trading with permanent, hygienic, and secure facilities.
For decades, traders in towns such as Ruiru, Limuru, and Githunguri operated in congested and often unsanitary environments, battling weather extremes and insecurity.
Today, many of them conduct business in newly constructed market complexes equipped with stalls, cold storage, water, electricity and digital payment systems. "I used to sell vegetables under an umbrella by the roadside," says Jane Wanjiru, a mother of three who now owns a stall at the newly opened Limuru Modern Market. "Now, I don't have to worry about the rain, and I serve more customers because they find the place clean and accessible." The transformation is the result of the government and World Bank investing in market infrastructure under Kenya's Vision 2030 plan.
The establishment of modern markets in Kiambu County marks a significant step towards economic empowerment for small-scale traders. With over 20 markets completed or under construction, the county is setting a benchmark in market infrastructure development, fostering a conducive environment for trade and economic growth.
